VIRGIN BLUE NEW CAIRNS-AUCKLAND NON-STOP FLIGHTS TAKE OFF TODAY

DIRECT TO THE LAND OF THE LONG WHITE CLOUD!

Tuesday 23 March 2010: Pacific Blue, Virgin Blue’s New Zealand-based international airline, will this evening launch its first international service from Cairns to Auckland, heralding a new era in choice and fare competition on the trans-Tasman route, as well as boosting tourism to Far North Queensland.

The airline will operate twice weekly return flights on Tuesdays and Saturdays and has committed one of its Boeing 737-800 aircraft to the route, boosting seat capacity by 79% across ‘the ditch’.

Virgin Blue CEO Brett Godfrey said the new service had already stirred up competition on the route with Pacific Blue attracting solid load bookings into the middle of the year and competitors dropping their fares.

“By the way bookings are currently trending we’re very confident this new, affordable direct service will continue to grow in popularity in both directions,” he said.

Pacific Blue’s everyday low lead-in fares start from $349* one way on the net, more than 13%^ cheaper than fares previously available in the market.

“Since we announced our intention to commence services we are not surprised our competitors have seen it necessary to suddenly drop their fares”, Brett Godfrey added.

As New Zealand’s largest and busiest business and shopping orientated city, Auckland ‘The City of Sails’, is the gateway to New Zealand’s North Island ski fields, North West wine district and the spectacular natural wonders of Great Barrier and Waiheke Islands and the Summit of Rangitoto.

The city also boasts the tallest man-made structure in New Zealand, the 328 metre tall Sky Tower, the popular Queen Street shopping hub and a vibrant and cosmopolitan wining, dining and social scene.

Pacific Blue and Blue Holidays currently have some exciting travel packages in the market to entice Queenslanders to chill out in Auckland this winter with up to 30% off regular prices.

BLUE HOLIDAYS ‘Rydges Auckland’ FOUR NIGHT DEAL from $809 per person:

Four nights accommodation for the price of three at Rydges Auckland, including return Pacific Blue flights from $809 per person ex Cairns. On sale now until 30 April 2010, for travel from 1 April 2010 – 31 August 2010. For bookings and full terms and conditions see www.virginblue.com.au/holidays or call 13 15 16.